Royal Holloway University of London – Pyroguard Protect
Egham, Surrey, UK

Meeting the demands of modern design

The Challenge

The Davison Building – which opened its doors for the 2017-18 academic year – sits at the heart of the renowned university’s scenic campus beside its iconic grade 1 listed Founder’s Building.

Alongside a cutting-edge library stands a host of facilities: open study spaces which overlook the leafy Founder’s Square; individual study pods and collaborative study areas; and seminar, events and exhibition spaces. To make these spaces work for everybody, glass is integral. Whether it’s the bridge which spans the library atrium, exterior windows, or internal glazed panelling, the functionality of these defined spaces is made possible with glass.

As a result, Pyroguard was approached by Moda Interiors to deliver a solution which would fulfil the architectural design while meeting specific safety regulations.

“Pyroguard was the natural choice to supply the glazing for these frames. The glass provides the highest levels of fire resistance, as well as providing noise reduction and barrier protection. Besides achieving these essential technical and safety requirements, the finished product effortlessly ties the building together"

With the library open around the clock providing adequate fire protection was a must in ensuring the safety of students, staff and visitors.

The solution was Pyroguard Protect EI60 – toughened glass with double-sided fire protection capable of providing integrity and heat insulation for up to 60 minutes.

Meeting EI classification, Pyroguard Protect provides the greatest levels of protection against flames, smoke and radiant heat, allowing valuable time to be gained in the event of evacuation. Providing a level of protection which far exceeds the legislative requirements, the glazing solution is fire tested to BS 476 and BS EN 1363-1 standards and is capable of providing protection for 30, 60, 90, 120 or 180 minutes, depending upon its specification.